Often referred to as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has a rich chronicled heritage dating back to the 3rd century BC. With an area of approximately 65,000 square kilometers, the traveller who visits different places across the country can experience vast changes in climatic conditions and breathtaking landscape patterns. Many of the cultural and historical sites in the island are archeological sites which are preserved and protected by the government of Sri Lanka. It has a tropical climate with monsoon rains that sweeps through the island at different times of the year, keeping the lush array of flora and fauna that is unique to the country. Thirteen percent of the land is reserved for nature conservation thereby maintaining the abundant wildlife and bio diversity of the island. With the ocean surrounding the land, Sri Lanka boasts of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With all this and more, it is no wonder that Sri Lanka is rated as one of the best holiday destinations in the world